CN112785791A

CN112785791A - Transaction processing system, transaction support device, storage medium, and transaction processing method

Info

Publication number: CN112785791A
Application number: CN202010903993.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 中司文雄; 伊藤幹生; 山口清充; 二宮茂樹; 川本剛士
Original assignee: Toshiba TEC Corp
Current assignee: Toshiba TEC Corp
Priority date: 2019-11-08
Filing date: 2020-09-01
Publication date: 2021-05-11
Also published as: JP2023029402A; US20220327510A1; US20210142308A1; JP2021077096A

Abstract

A transaction processing system, a transaction support device, a storage medium, and a transaction processing method are provided, which can complete a transaction involving a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk included in a commodity to be purchased without using a checkout point equipped with the clerk. The registration unit registers a product designated by an operation in the terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal. The settlement unit performs a settlement process for settling the customer for the payment of the commodity registered by the registration unit. The acquisition unit acquires data specified by an operation in the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodity to be settled in the settlement processing performed by the settlement unit. The control unit permits the settlement processing by the settlement unit to start when the data acquired by the acquisition unit is preset release data.

Description

Transaction processing system, transaction support device, storage medium, and transaction processing method

This application claims priority to japanese application having application number JP2019-203286, application number 2019, 11/08, and the contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The embodiment of the invention relates to a transaction processing system, a transaction supporting device, a storage medium and a transaction processing method.

Background

Currently, a transaction processing system that registers contents of a transaction in accordance with an operation of a terminal device by a customer is considered as a cart POS system, a smartphone POS system, or the like.

In such a system, if a settlement method such as credit card settlement or barcode settlement is used, the settlement process can be completed in accordance with the operation of the customer in the terminal device. Further, if a self-service checkout machine that performs settlement processing according to the operation of the customer is used, the settlement processing can be completed according to the operation of the customer in the checkout machine. Moreover, if settlement can be completed in this way, the transaction can be completed without the involvement of a clerk.

However, some of the products may require confirmation by a clerk when an age restriction is made for the purchaser. In addition, in the conventional transaction processing system, a checkout station equipped with a clerk is also provided in advance, and a transaction in which a commodity requiring confirmation by the clerk is included in a commodity to be purchased is dealt with in the checkout station.

In such a case, a technique is desired that can be completed without using a check-out place equipped with a clerk even in a transaction in which a commodity requiring confirmation by the clerk is included in a commodity to be purchased.

Disclosure of Invention

In view of the above-described problems, it is an object of the present invention to provide a transaction processing system, a transaction support device, a storage medium, and a transaction processing method that can complete a transaction involving a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk included in a commodity to be purchased without using a check-out place provided with the clerk.

In order to solve the above problem, an embodiment of the present invention provides a transaction processing system including a registration unit, a settlement unit, an acquisition unit, and a control unit. The registration unit registers a product designated by an operation in the terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal. The settlement unit performs a settlement process for allowing a customer to settle the payment for the commodity registered by the registration unit. The acquisition unit acquires data specified by an operation in the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodity to be settled in the settlement processing performed by the settlement unit. The control unit permits the settlement processing by the settlement unit to start when the data acquired by the acquisition unit is preset release data.

According to the above-described transaction processing system, it is possible to provide a transaction processing system capable of executing settlement of a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk.

In the above-described transaction processing system, the control unit may determine that the data acquired by the acquisition unit is the release data when the data acquired by the acquisition unit and authentication data are in a predetermined relationship.

According to the above-described transaction processing system, it is possible to confirm the revocation data as being legitimate.

In the above-described transaction processing system, the control unit may use authentication data acquired by the terminal when the customer enters the store.

According to the above-described transaction processing system, release data can be easily differentiated for each store or each operator.

In the above-described transaction processing system, the acquisition unit may acquire, as the data, symbol data indicated by a symbol code read by the terminal.

According to the transaction processing system, the operation is simple, and the workload is low.

In the above-mentioned transaction processing system, the symbol code is a barcode.

According to the transaction processing system, the cost of the reading device is low.

In the above-mentioned transaction processing system, further comprising: a display unit that displays a guide urging reading of the symbol code on the display unit when the acquisition unit acquires the data.

According to the transaction processing system, the operation can be accurately transmitted.

In the above-mentioned transaction processing system, further comprising: and a detection unit which detects data indicating return to product registration, wherein when the product is included in the product which requires confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale, the detection unit returns to a state of performing the product registration based on the detected data indicating return to the product registration.

According to the above-described transaction processing system, when the commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included, the transaction processing system can register and return the commodity.

A transaction support device according to another aspect of the present invention is a transaction processing system including a registration unit for registering a product designated by an operation on a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal, and a settlement unit for performing a settlement process for allowing the customer to settle a payment for the product registered by the registration unit, the transaction support device including: an acquisition unit that acquires data specified by an operation performed by the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodities to be settled in the settlement processing performed by the settlement unit; and a control unit that permits the start of the settlement processing by the settlement unit when the data acquired by the acquisition unit is preset release data.

According to the above-described transaction support device, it is possible to provide a transaction support device capable of executing settlement of a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk.

A storage medium according to another aspect of the present invention stores an information processing program for causing a computer provided in a transaction processing system including a registration unit for registering a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal, and a settlement unit for performing a settlement process for settling a payment for the product registered by the registration unit by the customer, to function as: an acquisition unit that acquires data specified by an operation performed by the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodities to be settled in the settlement processing performed by the settlement unit; and a control unit that permits the start of the settlement processing by the settlement unit when the data acquired by the acquisition unit is preset release data.

According to the storage medium, a function of enabling the computer to execute settlement of a product requiring confirmation by a clerk can be provided.

A transaction processing method of another aspect of the invention includes: registering a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal; acquiring data specified by an operation in the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodities to be settled in a settlement process for settling the payment of the registered commodity by the customer; and permitting the start of the settlement processing when the acquired data is preset release data, and executing the settlement processing when the settlement processing is permitted.

According to the above-described transaction processing method, a transaction method capable of performing settlement of a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk can be provided.

Drawings

Next, a transaction processing system, a transaction support apparatus, an information processing program, and a transaction processing method according to the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein the accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form a part of this application, and wherein the illustrated embodiments of the invention and the description thereof are intended to illustrate and not limit the invention, wherein:

fig. 1 is a block diagram of a schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the store server in FIG. 1;

fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the virtual POS server in fig. 1;

fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main circuit of the mobile controller in fig. 1;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the principal data components of the data records contained in the transaction management database shown in FIG. 5;

fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a main data configuration of a data record included in the registration database shown in fig. 5;

fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the communication server in fig. 1;

fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the user terminal in fig. 1;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of information processing based on the processor shown in FIG. 5;

fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a list screen;

fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a registration screen;

fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a list screen;

fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a list screen;

fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a guidance screen;

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen;

FIG. 24 is a view showing an example of a cancel screen;

FIG. 25 is a view showing an example of a warning screen; and

fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a checkout screen.

Description of the reference numerals

1 store Server 2 virtual POS Server

3 mobile controller 4 communication server

5 checkout machine 6 Access Point

7-shop communication network

11. 21, 31, 41, 301 processor

12. 22, 32, 42, 302 main memory

13. 23, 33, 43, 303 auxiliary storage unit

14. 24, 34, 44 communication interface

15. 25, 35, 46, 308 transmission line

45 communication unit 304 touch panel

305 camera 306 wireless communication unit

307 mobile communication unit

100(100A, 100B) store system

200 relay server 300 user terminal

400 communication network

Detailed Description

An embodiment of a transaction processing system is described below with reference to the drawings.

The transaction processing system in the present embodiment processes a transaction of a product in a store that sells a plurality of products including a product that requires confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale (hereinafter referred to as a product to be confirmed) according to a matter such as setting age restrictions on a purchaser to a visiting customer.

Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to the present embodiment.

The transaction processing system is configured to allow communication among the plurality of store systems 100, the relay server 200, and the user terminal 300 via the communication network 400.

In FIG. 1, two store systems 100 are shown. These store systems 100 are installed in stores a and stores B that are different from each other using a transaction processing system. The number of stores using the transaction processing system may be three or more, and the store system 100 may be provided for each store. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish the store systems 100 installed in the respective stores, the store system 100 installed in the store a is referred to as a store 100A. The store system 100 provided in the store B is denoted as a store system 100B.

The operator of the operating shop a may be the same as or different from the operator of the operating shop B. When the trading system is used in another store, the operator who operates the store may be the same as or different from the operator who operates the store a or the store B.

The relay server 200 relays data communication between the user terminal 300 and the store system 100. The relay server 200 provides a relay function of data communication as a cloud service through the communication network 400, for example.

The user terminal 300 is an information communication terminal having a function as a user interface for a customer who makes a purchase in a store using a transaction system. The user terminal 300 has a function of performing wireless communication with the store system 100 and a function of performing wireless communication with the communication network 400. As the user terminal 300, a communication terminal having a data communication function such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal can be used. The user terminal 30 may be owned by a customer or may be lent to a customer through a store.

As the communication Network 400, for example, the internet, VPN (Virtual Private Network), LAN (local area Network), public communication Network, mobile communication Network, or the like can be used alone or in appropriate combination. As the communication network 400, a mobile communication network and the internet or a VPN are typically used.

The schematic configuration of each store system 100 is common. That is, the store system 100 is configured to allow the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, the mobile controller 3, the communication server 4, the checkout 5, and the access point 6 to communicate via the in-store communication network 7. However, the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, the mobile controller 3, the communication server 4, the checkout 5, the access point 6, and the in-store communication network 7 need not be identical as long as functions for realizing operations described later are common. Some of the store systems 100 may have a device not shown in fig. 1.

The store server 1 comprehensively manages a plurality of transactions as targets of transaction processing realized by the store system 100 as described later. The store server 1 has the same function as a conventional POS server, for example.

The virtual POS server 2 performs information processing for registering purchased products for each transaction and settling the payment for the purchased products in response to an external request. That is, the virtual POS server 2 virtually implements functions that the existing POS terminal has. The information processing performed by the virtual POS server 2 is customized in a manner adapted to the operator policy different for each shop. That is, for example, the information processing performed by the store server 1 included in the store system 100A and the information processing performed by the store server 1 included in the store system 100B are partially different.

The mobile controller 3 supports the above-described information processing by the virtual POS server 2 while using the user terminal 300 as a user interface device. The mobile controller 3 is an example of a transaction support device.

The communication server 4 performs communication processing for data transfer between the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, the mobile controller 3, and the checkout 5 and the relay server 200 via the communication network 400.

The checkout device 5 obtains a payment for each purchased product managed by the virtual POS server 2, and then causes the customer to settle the payment. The accounting machine 5 is a settlement method that can be used for the above-described settlement, and may be all or any part of known settlement methods such as cash settlement, credit card settlement, electronic money settlement, point settlement, and code settlement (also referred to as mobile settlement, smartphone settlement, and the like). The checkout device 5 may be a checkout device operated by either a clerk or a customer. As the checkout device 5, for example, a self-service checkout device used in a conventional semi-self-service POS system can be used. The checkout device 5 may have a function of performing information processing for registering a commodity as a purchased commodity. In this case, the checkout device 5 may be, for example, a front-facing POS terminal used in a conventional POS system or a self-service POS terminal used in a conventional self-service POS system.

The access point 6 performs communication processing for realizing access of the user terminal 300 to the in-store communication network 7 by wireless communication. As the access point 6, for example, a known communication device that performs wireless communication according to the IEEE802.11 standard can be used. The access point 6 is provided in the store so that the user terminal 300 can wirelessly communicate with any place in the store. Depending on the size of the store, a plurality of access points 6 may be arranged in one store system 100.

As the in-store communication network 7, the internet, VPN, LAN, public communication network, mobile communication network, and the like can be used alone or in appropriate combination. However, the in-store communication network 7 is typically a LAN.

In the store in which the store system 100 is installed, a two-dimensional code TC1 for registration is published near the entrance and a two-dimensional code TC2 for exit is published near the exit. The two-dimensional code TC1 represents registration data for registration. The two-dimensional code TC2 represents exit data for exiting. The login data and the logout data are different for each shop. Therefore, when it is necessary to distinguish between the two-dimensional codes TC1 and TC2 for the store a and the two-dimensional codes TC1 and TC2 for the store B, the two-dimensional codes TC1A and TC2A for the store a and the two-dimensional codes TC1B and TC2B for the store B are shown.

The registration data represents, for example, the following information.

(1) An action version of the store system 100. For example, the registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A represents the operation version of the store system 100A. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B represents the operation version of the store system 100B.

(2) An operator code for identifying an operator who operates the store in which the store system 100 is installed. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A represents an operator code assigned to the operator of the operating store a. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B represents an operator code assigned to the operator of the operating store B.

(3) A store code for identifying a store in which the store system 100 is installed. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates a store code assigned to the store a. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates a store code assigned to the store B. The store code may be a code that can identify each of all stores using the transaction processing system, or may be a code that can identify each of a plurality of stores operated by the same operator.

(4) The name of the operator who operates the store in which the store system 100 is installed. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates the name of the operator who operates the store a. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the name of the operator who operates the store B.

(5) The name of the store in which the store system 100 is installed. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates the name of the store a. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the name of the store B.

(6) And a mark for distinguishing the two-dimensional code TC1 from the two-dimensional code TC 2. The flag in the login data is in a state indicating that it is login data. This state is, for example, "1". The flag is common to all two-dimensional codes TC 1.

(7) The IP address of the communication server 4. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates the IP address of the communication server 4 included in the store system 100A. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the IP address of the communication server 4 included in the store system 100B.

(8) The domain name of the relay server 200. The domain name is common to all two-dimensional codes TC 1. However, a plurality of relay servers 200 having different domain names may be used separately for each shop. At this time, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1 indicates the domain name of the relay server 200 used in the corresponding store.

(9) The address of the electronic ticket server. The electronic ticket server is not included in the transaction processing system shown in fig. 1, but provides an electronic ticket service through the communication network 400. For example, the registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates an address for accessing an electronic ticket server providing an electronic ticket service used by the operator who operates the store a via the communication network 400. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates an address for accessing an electronic ticket server providing an electronic ticket service used by the operator who operates the store B through the communication network 400. The address may be common to all the two-dimensional codes TC1, or may be represented by any one of a plurality of addresses corresponding to the two-dimensional code TC 1.

(10) A flag indicating which of the wireless communication with the access point 6 and the wireless communication with the communication network 400 the user terminal 300 should use for data transfer to and from the store system 100. For example, in the store a, if wireless communication with the access point 6 is used for data transmission and reception between the store system 100A and the user terminal 300, the flag is regarded as "1", for example. For example, in the store B, if wireless communication with the communication network 400 is used for data transmission and reception between the store system 100B and the user terminal 300, the flag is regarded as "0", for example.

(11) An SSID (Service Set IDentifier) for identifying the access point 6. For example, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A represents an SSID identifying the access point 6 included in the store system 100A. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the SSID of the access point 6 included in the store system 100B.

(12) A password for accessing the access point 6. For example, the login data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates a password set by the access point 6 included in the store system 100A. The login data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates a password set by the access point 6 included in the store system 100B.

(13) The identification number of the security means used by the access point 6. For example, the identification number is assigned "1" in the WPA2-PSK scheme, "2" in the WPA-PSK scheme, and "3" in the WEP scheme. For example, if the access point 6 included in the store system 100A uses the WPA2-PSK method as the security method, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the identification code. For example, if the access point 6 included in the store system 100B uses the WPA-PSK method as the security method, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "2" as the identification code.

(14) A flag for identifying whether the user terminal 300 is regarded as an error or not as an error when the connection with the relay server 200 fails and continues to operate. For example, in the store a, if the connection between the user terminal 300 and the relay server 200 is failed and is set as an error, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1", for example, as the flag. For example, in the store B, if the connection between the user terminal 300 and the relay server 200 is set to continue the operation even if the connection fails, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "0" as the flag, for example.

(15) Identification code of the transmission mode related to the state of the user terminal 300. The transmission mode includes, for example, a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The identification number of the transmission pattern is, for example, "1" in the first pattern, "2" in the second pattern, and "3" in the third pattern. In the first mode, the state of the user terminal 300 is transmitted to the relay server 200. In the second mode, the state of the user terminal 300 is transmitted to the shop system 100. In the third mode, the state of the user terminal 300 is not transmitted. For example, in store a, if the first mode is applied as the transmission mode, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the identification number. For example, in the store B, if the second mode is applied as the transmission mode, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "2" as the identification number.

(16) An identification number of a transmission pattern related to a log file in which log data of the user terminal 300 is accumulated. The transmission mode includes, for example, a first mode, a second mode, a third mode, and a fourth mode. The identification number of the transmission pattern is, for example, "1" in the first pattern, "2" in the second pattern, "3" in the third pattern, and "4" in the fourth pattern. In the first mode, the log file is transmitted to the relay server 200 and not transmitted to the store system 100. In the second mode, the log file is transmitted to the store system 100 and not transmitted to the relay server 200. In the third mode, the log file is transmitted to both the store system 100 and the relay server 200. In the fourth mode, no log file is sent. For example, in store a, if the first mode is applied as the transmission mode, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the identification number. For example, in the store B, if the second mode is applied as the transmission mode, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "2" as the identification number.

(17) A host name or an IP address used when the log File is transmitted to the relay server 200 via the communication network 400 according to FTP (File Transfer Protocol).

(18) A user name used when the log file is transmitted to the relay server 200 according to FTP through the communication network 400.

(19) A password used when the log file is transmitted to the relay server 200 according to the FTP through the communication network 400.

(20) The pathname of the log file transmitted to the relay server 200 according to the FTP through the communication network 400.

(21) A flag for identifying the deletion of a check code of a UPC (Universal Product Cord) which is a kind of commodity code. For example, in the store a, if the operation of the check code is not deleted, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the flag, for example. For example, in the store B, if the operation of deleting the check code is performed, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "0" as the flag, for example.

(22) Time to automatically transition the camera screen in the user terminal 300. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store a as the time. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store B as the time.

(23) The timeout time when the user terminal 300 communicates with the store system 100 through the access point 6. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store a as the time. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store B as the time.

(24) The number of times of the rewarding is permitted when the communication of the user terminal 300 and the shop system 100 through the access point 6 times out. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates the number of times set in advance in relation to the store a as the number of times. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the number of times set in advance in relation to the store B as the number of times.

(25) The timeout time when the user terminal 300 communicates with the store system 100 through the relay server 200. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store a as the time. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates a time set in advance in relation to the store B as the time.

(26) The number of times of the rewarding is permitted when the communication of the user terminal 300 and the shop system 100 through the relay server 200 times out. The registration data shown in the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates the number of times set in advance as the number of times related to the store a. The registration data of the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates the number of times set in advance as the number of times related to the store B.

(27) Authentication data used in authentication processing for authenticating a declaration of confirmation completion regarding a transaction for a product requiring confirmation by a clerk. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A represents authentication data set in advance in relation to the store a. The registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B represents authentication data set in advance in relation to the store B. The authentication data is preferably created differently for each store, but the same authentication data may be provided in different stores.

(28) Data for identifying the operation pattern of the store system 100. For example, if the shop system 100A is set to the normal mode in which the transaction processing system is normally operated, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1", for example, as the data. For example, if the shop system 100B is set to the demonstration mode for demonstrating the operation transaction processing system, the registered data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates "2", for example, as the data.

(29) Data for identifying a pattern of data transfer to the checkout machine 5. For example, if the store system 100A is set to a mode in which data transfer is requested from the checkout machine 5 to the mobile controller 3, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1", for example, as the data. For example, if the shop system 100B is set to a mode in which data transfer from the mobile controller 3 to the checkout 5 is performed without a request from the checkout 5, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B shows, for example, "2" as the data.

(30) And a flag indicating whether or not to permit the settlement by the code settlement method by the operation in the user terminal 300. For example, in the store a, if the code settlement is permitted, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the flag, for example. In addition, for example, in the store B, if the code settlement is not permitted, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B shows, for example, "0" as the flag.

(31) A flag for identifying whether registration of a commodity in which age restriction of a purchaser is made (hereinafter referred to as an age restriction commodity) in the user terminal 300 is permitted. Further, for example, in the shop a, if registration of the age-restricted product in the user terminal 300 is permitted, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A shows, for example, "1" as the flag. In addition, for example, in the store B, if the code settlement is not permitted, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B shows, for example, "0" as the flag.

(32) Data for identifying an input pattern of a membership code of the scoring member. For example, if the store system 100A has been set to the mode in which the member code is manually input, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1A shows, for example, "1" as the data. Further, for example, if the store system 100B has been set to a mode in which a member code is input by reading of a barcode, the registration data shown by the two-dimensional code TC1B shows, for example, "2" as the flag.

(33) And a flag for identifying whether confirmation of a clerk is required at the time of input of the member code when a mode for manually inputting the member code of the point member is set. For example, if the confirmation is required in the store a, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A indicates "1" as the flag, for example. Note that, for example, if the confirmation is not required in the store B, the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates, for example, "0" as the flag.

(34) A threshold value for checking the remaining battery level of the user terminal 300 at the time of login. The threshold value is set for each store or each operator. For example, when the operator who operates the store a sets the threshold value to "20%", the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1A shows, for example, "20" as the threshold value. For example, when the store B sets the threshold value to "25%", the registration data indicated by the two-dimensional code TC1B indicates, for example, "25" as the threshold value.

The above is an example of the information indicated by the registration data. However, the login data may not be included in part of the various information described above. The log data may show information different from the various information shown above.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the store server 1.

The store server 1 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage unit 13, a communication interface 14, and a transmission line 15. The processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage unit 13, and the communication interface 14 are communicable via a transmission line 15. The processor 11, the main memory 12, and the auxiliary storage unit 13 are connected by a transmission line 15 to constitute a computer for controlling the store server 1.

The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the above-described computer. The processor 11 executes information processing for realizing various functions as the store server 1 in accordance with an information processing program such as an operating system and an application program. The processor 11 is, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU).

The main memory 12 corresponds to a main memory portion of the above-described computer. The main memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores the above-described information processing program in a nonvolatile storage area. The main memory 12 may store data required for the processor 11 to execute information processing in a nonvolatile or volatile storage area. The main memory 12 uses a volatile storage area as a work area in which data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 11. The non-volatile Memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). Volatile Memory areas are, for example, RAM (random access Memory).

The auxiliary storage unit 13 corresponds to an auxiliary storage section of the computer. As the auxiliary storage unit 13, for example, a storage unit using a known storage device such as an EEPROM (electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be used. The auxiliary storage unit 13 stores data used when the processor 11 performs various processes, data created by processes in the processor 11, and the like. The auxiliary storage unit 13 may store the information processing program.

The communication interface 14 performs data communication with each unit connected to the in-store communication network 7 according to a predetermined communication protocol. As the communication interface 14, a known communication device for LAN, for example, can be applied.

The transmission line 15 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like, and transmits data and control signals transmitted and received between the connected units.

The auxiliary storage unit 13 stores a store management application AP11 that is one of the information processing programs. The store management application AP11 is an application program and describes information processing for realizing the function as the store server 1. The store management application AP11 may be a different application created according to the store operator policy of each store or each operator who operates the store. For example, if the sales data management methods are different between the store a and the store B, the store management application AP11 used in the store system 100A describes information processing for management of sales data that is adapted to the management method of sales data in the store a, and the store management application AP11 used in the store system 100B describes information processing for management of sales data that is adapted to the management method of sales data in the store B.

A part of the storage area of the auxiliary storage unit 13 is used as the database group DB 11. The database group DB11 includes a plurality of databases for various information management. One of the databases included in the database group DB11 is a product database for managing products sold in stores. The product database is a collection of data records associated with products to be managed. The data records in the product database include data relating to the associated product, such as a product code, a price, and a product name. The commodity code is an identification code prepared for identifying a commodity for each SKU (Stock Keeping Unit, item), and is, for example, a JAN (japanese commodity Number) code. The trade name is a name prepared in such a manner that a person can easily distinguish the commodity. The price is the equivalent amount of money that becomes the sale of the goods.

One of the databases included in the database group DB11 is a user database for managing users of stores. The user database is a collection of data records associated with customers registered as users. The data records in the user database include data related to associated customers, such as user codes and attribute information for specifying users. The user code is a unique identification code that is set for each customer to identify each user. The attribute information may include name, gender, age, address, telephone number, etc. Further, the data records in the user database may include settlement information declared by the user. The settlement information is a credit card number or a code settlement ID (IDentifier) or the like. When a plurality of settlement methods can be selected, a settlement method code for identifying the settlement method may be included in the settlement information. In the case of a store that provides a point service, the settlement information may include an ID of the point service, a held point number, and the like.

The database group DB11 may include various databases managed by a POS server in an existing POS system. The database group DB11 may include which database or which data is included in which database configuration, and may be defined for each store.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the virtual POS server 2.

The virtual POS server 2 includes a processor 21, a main memory 22, an auxiliary storage unit 23, a communication interface 24, and a transmission line 25. The processor 21, the main memory 22, the auxiliary storage unit 23, and the communication interface 24 are communicable via a transmission line 25. The processor 21, the main memory 22, and the auxiliary storage unit 23 are connected via a transmission line 25 to constitute a computer for controlling the virtual POS server 2. The functions of the processor 21, the main memory 22, the auxiliary storage unit 23, the communication interface 24, and the transmission line 25 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage unit 13, the communication interface 14, and the transmission line 15, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

However, the auxiliary storage unit 23 stores the virtual POS application AP21 in place of the store management application AP 11. The virtual POS application AP21 is an application program, and describes information processing for realizing the function as the virtual POS server 2. The virtual POS application AP21 may be a different application created according to the store operator policy of each store or each operator who operates the store. For example, if discount service that is not performed in the store B is performed in the store a, the virtual POS application AP21 used in the store system 100A describes information processing for realizing the discount service, and the virtual POS application AP21 used in the store system 100B does not describe information processing for realizing the discount service.

Further, a part of the storage area of the auxiliary storage unit 23 is used as the transaction database DB21 instead of the database group DB 11. The transaction database DB21 is a collection of data records associated with the exchanges of customers who are shopping throughout the store. The data record of the transaction database DB21 includes a transaction code and product data on a product registered as a purchased product. The transaction code is a unique identification code set for each transaction to identify each transaction of the transactions. The product data indicates a product code, a product name, a price, a number, and the like. The configuration of the transaction database DB21 may be individually made in accordance with the store operator policy of each store or each operator who operates the store.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the mobile controller 3.

The mobile controller 3 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, a secondary storage unit 33, a communication interface 34, and a transmission line 35. The processor 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary storage unit 33, and the communication interface 34 are communicable via a transmission line 35. The processor 31, the main memory 32, and the auxiliary storage unit 33 are connected via a transmission line 35 to constitute a computer for controlling the mobile controller 3. The functions of the processor 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary storage unit 33, the communication interface 34, and the transmission line 35 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage unit 13, the communication interface 14, and the transmission line 15, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

However, the auxiliary storage unit 33 stores the registration support application AP31 in place of the store management application AP 11. The registration support application AP31 is an application program and describes information processing to be described later for supporting registration of purchased products. The registration support application AP31 is commonly used in each store system 100. However, various settings for information processing based on the registration support application AP31 may be customized for each store system 100.

Further, a part of the storage area of the auxiliary storage unit 23 is used as the transaction management database DB31 and the registration database DB32 instead of the database group DB 11. The configuration of the transaction management database DB31 and the registration database DB32 is common to each store system 100.

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a main data structure of the data record DR1 included in the transaction management database DB 31.

The transaction management database DB31 is a collection of data records DR1 associated with user terminals 300 utilized by customers in the store. Thus, where the customer is a single place, the transaction management database DB31 contains a data record DR 1. In addition, when there is no customer in the store, the transaction management database DB31 does not include the data record DR 1. Furthermore, the data record DR1 contains fields F11, F12, F13, F14.

A terminal code for identifying the associated user terminal 300 from other user terminals 300 is placed in field F11. As the terminal code, for example, a unique identification code set for each communication terminal to identify each terminal of the communication terminals used by the user terminal 300 can be used. Alternatively, for example, an identification code set for a smartphone POS application when the smartphone POS application described later is installed in the user terminal 300 may be used as the terminal code. A member code for identifying the customer who is using the associated user terminal 300 from other customers is placed in field F12. In field F13 is placed the transaction code of the transaction to be conducted using the associated user terminal 300. A to-be-confirmed flag for identifying whether or not an article to be confirmed is contained in an article that has been registered as a purchase article with the associated user terminal 300 is set in the field F14. In the present embodiment, the to-be-confirmed flag is "1" and shows that the to-be-confirmed product is included. The data record DR1 may include another field in which data different from the fields F11 to F14 is set. In other words, the to-confirm flag shows whether confirmation by a clerk is required.

Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a main data structure of the data record DR2 included in the registration database DB 32.

The registration database DB32 is a collection of data records DR2 associated with the exchanges of customers who are shopping throughout the store. Furthermore, the data record DR2 contains fields F21, F22. The data record DR2 may also contain fields F23, F24.

In field F21 is placed the transaction code of the associated transaction. The transaction code is the same as the transaction code set in field F12 of the data record DR1 associated with the user terminal 300 being used in the associated transaction. Registration data relating to the attempted registration of the merchandise in relation to the associated transaction is placed in field F22. The registration data will be described later.

In the data record DR2, when registration of two or more purchased articles is attempted in relation to the associated transaction, fields following the field F23 are included. Further, the same registration data as in the field F22 is set in the fields following the field F23.

Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the communication server 4.

The communication server 4 includes a processor 41, a main memory 42, an auxiliary storage unit 43, a communication interface 44, a communication unit 45, and a transmission line 46. The processor 41, the main memory 42, the auxiliary storage unit 43, the communication interface 44, and the communication unit 45 are communicable via a transmission line 46. The processor 41, the main memory 42, and the auxiliary storage unit 43 are connected by a transmission line 46 to constitute a computer for controlling the communication server 4. The functions of the processor 41, the main memory 42, the auxiliary storage unit 43, the communication interface 44, and the transmission line 46 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage unit 13, the communication interface 14, and the transmission line 15, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The communication unit 45 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network 400. As the communication unit 45, for example, a known internet connection device can be used.

The auxiliary storage unit 43 stores the communication processing application AP41 in place of the store management application AP 11. The communication processing application AP41 is an application program and describes information processing for communicating with the relay server 200 via the communication network 400 in order to realize data transfer between the mobile controller 3 and the user terminal 300. The communication processing application AP41 is common to each store system 100. However, various settings for information processing by the communication processing application AP41 may be customized for each store system 100.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the user terminal 300.

The user terminal 300 includes a processor 301, a main memory 302, an auxiliary memory unit 303, a touch panel 304 (display unit), a camera 305, a wireless communication unit 306, a mobile communication unit 307, a transmission line 308, and the like. The processor 301, the main memory 302, the auxiliary storage unit 303, the touch panel 304, the camera 305, and the mobile communication unit 307 are communicable via a transmission line 308. The processor 301, the main memory 302, and the auxiliary storage unit 303 are connected via a transmission line 308 to constitute a computer for controlling the user terminal 300. The functions of the processor 301, the main memory 302, the auxiliary storage unit 303, and the transmission line 308 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage unit 13, and the transmission line 15, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The touch panel 304 functions as an input device and a display device of the user terminal 300.

The camera 305 includes an optical system and an image sensor, and generates image data showing an image in a field of view formed by the optical system by the image sensor.

The wireless communication unit 306 exchanges data with the access point 6 by wireless communication according to a wireless communication protocol. As the wireless communication unit 306, for example, a known communication device conforming to IEEE802.11 standard can be used.

The mobile communication unit 307 is an interface for data communication through the communication network 400. As the mobile communication unit 307, for example, a known communication device for data communication via a mobile communication network can be used.

The auxiliary storage unit 303 stores a smartphone POS application AP301 that is one of information processing programs, and the smartphone POS application AP301 is an application program and describes information processing described later for providing the user terminal 300 with a function as a user interface of the store system 100. The smartphone POS application AP301 is shared among a plurality of user terminals 300.

As hardware of the shop server 1, the virtual POS server 2, or the mobile controller 3, for example, a general-purpose server device can be used. The transfer of the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, or the mobile controller 3 is usually performed in a state where the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP31 is stored in the

auxiliary storage unit

13, 23, or 33, respectively, and the database group DB11, the transaction database DB21, the transaction management database DB31, and the registration database DB32 are not stored. However, hardware that does not store the status of the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP31 in the

auxiliary storage unit

13, 23, or 33, or the status of another version of the same type of application stored in the

auxiliary storage unit

13, 23, or 33 may be assigned separately from the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP 31. Further, the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, or the mobile controller 3 may be configured by writing the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP31 in the

auxiliary storage unit

13, 23, or 33 in accordance with an operation of an arbitrary operator. The transfer of the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP31 may be performed by recording in a removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or by communication via a network. The transaction database DB21, the transaction management database DB31, and the registration database DB32 are configured in the

auxiliary storage unit

13, 23, or 33 by the

processor

11, 21, or 31 executing information processing based on the store management application AP11, the virtual POS application AP21, or the registration support application AP 31. In addition, at least a part of the databases included in the store management application AP11 and the database group DB11 may be stored in the main memory 12. Virtual POS application AP21 and at least a portion of transaction database DB21 may also be stored in main memory 22. At least a part of the registration support application AP31, the transaction management database DB31, and the registration database DB32 may be stored in the main memory 32.

Next, the operation of the transaction processing system configured as described above will be described. The various processing contents described below are examples, and the order of a part of the processing can be changed as appropriate, a part of the processing can be omitted, or another processing can be added. For example, in the following description, a description of a part of the processing is omitted in order to explain the characteristic operation of the present embodiment in a simple manner. For example, when some error occurs, although there is a case where processing for coping with the error is performed, a description of a part of such processing is omitted.

In addition, a service provided to a customer by the operation of the transaction processing system described below is referred to as a smartphone POS service.

The user terminal 300 exchanges data with the store system 100 in order to use the smartphone POS service, but uses which wireless communication of the wireless communication with the access point 6 and the wireless communication with the communication network 400 is determined by the state of the flag included in the registration data in the communication for this purpose. However, for the sake of convenience of description, a case of using wireless communication with the access point 6 will be described below. The state of the flag included in the login data is determined by which mode of the mode in which the checkout machine 5 requests data transfer to the mobile controller 3 for data transfer from the virtual POS server 2 to the checkout machine 5 for checkout in the checkout machine 5 and the mode in which the checkout machine 5 does not request data transfer from the mobile controller 3 to the checkout machine 5. However, for the sake of convenience of description, a mode in which data transfer is requested from the checkout machine 5 to the mobile controller 3 is used as a fixed mode.

In order to use the smartphone POS service, the customer installs the registration support application AP31 in advance in his own smartphone or the like and can use it as the user terminal 300. Alternatively, the customer borrows a user terminal 300 configured by installing the registration support application AP31 in a tablet terminal or the like into the store. Then, the customer enters any one of the stores in which the store system 100 is installed, while holding the user terminal 300 in a state in which the information processing by the registration support application AP31 is started.

In addition, the processor 301 in the user terminal 300 executes information processing as shown in fig. 9 to 13 based on the registration support application AP 31.

First, the processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a main menu screen as the ACT101 shown in fig. 9. The main menu screen is a screen for accepting designation of any one of several processes to be performed based on the registration support application AP 31. On the main menu screen, a plurality of GUI elements including a GUI (Graphical User Interface) element for specifying the start of shopping are arranged. The GUI elements are, for example, soft keys.

The processor 301 confirms as to whether or not the start of shopping is designated as the ACT 102. Then, if the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and proceeds to the ACT 103.

The processor 301 confirms as the ACT103 whether or not designation other than start of shopping is made. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 102.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for accepting any designation on the main menu screen to be performed as the ACT102 and the ACT 103. Then, if a designation other than the start of shopping is made, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT103 and proceeds to the designated process. Note that the description of the processing of the processor 301 in this case is omitted.

When a customer enters a shop to start shopping, a preset operation for designating the start of shopping is performed on the main menu screen.

When an operation for specifying the start of shopping is detected in the touch panel 304, for example, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT102 and proceeds to the ACT 104.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a scan screen for registration as the ACT 104. The scan screen for registration is a screen for urging the customer to read the two-dimensional code TC1 for registration. The processor 301 starts the camera 305, for example, and thereby superimposes a text message urging a customer to read the two-dimensional code TC1 and a line showing a reference of the position for aligning the two-dimensional code TC1 on an image obtained by the camera 305 to generate a scanned screen.

If the scanning screen is displayed on the touch panel 304, the customer aligns the camera 305 with the two-dimensional code TC1 so that the two-dimensional code TC1 published near the entrance of the store is reflected in the scanning screen.

The processor 301 waits for acceptance of the two-dimensional code to be read as the ACT 105. At this time, the processor 301 repeatedly parses the image obtained by the camera 305 and attempts reading of the two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be read as a process by the smartphone POS application AP301 or as a process by another application for reading the two-dimensional code. Then, the processor 301 determines YES if the two-dimensional code has been read, and proceeds to the ACT 106.

The processor 301 confirms as the ACT106 whether or not the data indicated by the two-dimensional code that has been read is registered data. If the processor 301 does not register data, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 105. At this time, the processor 301 may cause the touch panel 304 to display a screen for notifying the customer of the two-dimensional code read with an error.

If it can be confirmed that the data indicated by the read two-dimensional code is registered data, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT106 and proceeds to the ACT 107. The processor 301 saves the read login data in the main memory 302 or the secondary storage unit 303 as ACT 107.

The processor 301 requests login to the mobile controller 3 as ACT 108. Specifically, the processor 301 establishes wireless communication between the wireless communication unit 306 and the access point 6 based on data indicated by the login data. For example, if the camera 305 is directed to the two-dimensional code TC1A by the customer in the store a, the login data processor 301 shown based on the two-dimensional code TC1A establishes wireless communication with the access point 6 provided by the store system 100A. Further, the processor 301 transmits request data for requesting login to the mobile controller 3 through wireless communication with the access point 6. When the wireless communication with the access point 6 provided in the store system 100A is established as described above, the request data is transmitted to the mobile controller 3 provided in the store system 100A via the access point 6 provided in the store system 100A and the in-store communication network 7. Further, the processor 301 includes identification data for identifying a request for registration and a terminal code in the request data for registration request. When the customer is a registered person using the smartphone POS service and has a member code, the processor 301 also includes the member code in the request data. The member code is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 303 of the user terminal 300, for example. The processor 301 may include other data such as data for authenticating a customer in the request data. Further, various requests from the user terminal 300 to the mobile controller 3, which will be described later, are realized by transmitting request data including identification data for identifying a reason for the request from the user terminal 300 to the mobile controller 3 via the access point 6 and the in-store communication network 7, as described above.

When request data for requesting login is received through the communication interface 34, the processor 31 in the mobile controller 3 starts information processing relating to a transaction of a customer who wants to login.

Fig. 14 to 17 are flowcharts of information processing by the processor 31.

The processor 31 starts this information processing every time request data for requesting login is received through the communication interface 34. When information processing started based on another request has already been executed, new information processing is started in parallel with the processing thereof. That is, the processor 31 may execute a plurality of information processes in parallel for each of the plurality of user terminals 300. Hereinafter, the term "user terminal 300" refers to the user terminal 300 that is the target of information processing by the processor 31.

The processor 31 performs login processing as the ACT201 of fig. 14. The processor 31 requests the start of the transaction, for example, to the virtual POS server 2, and receives notification of the transaction code. The processor 31 adds a new data record DR1, in which the terminal code included in the request data is set in the field F11, to the transaction management database DB 31. The processor 31 sets the member code in field F12 of the new data record DR1 if the member code is included in the demand data. The processor 31 sets the above-mentioned notified transaction code in field F13 of the new data record DR 1. Further, the processor 31 sets "0" as a flag to be confirmed in the field F14 of the new data record DR 1. In this way, management of transactions using the user terminal 300 that requires login is started.

In addition, if the processor 21 in the virtual POS server 2 requests the start of a transaction from the mobile controller 3, the processor determines a transaction code according to a preset rule, and starts a registration process of a purchased article associated with the transaction code. Further, the processor 21 notifies the mobile controller 3 of the determined transaction code.

The processor 31 confirms as the ACT202 whether the login process is normally completed. If the processor 31 cannot normally complete the login process due to some abnormality, it determines that NO, and proceeds to ACT 203.

The processor 31 notifies the user terminal 300 of an error as the ACT 203. The processor 31 transmits notification data for error notification to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, for example. The processor 31 includes identification data for identifying a notification that is an error in the notification data. The processor 31 may also include an error code indicating the cause of the error in the notification data.

Note that, similarly to the above, various notifications to the user terminal 300 from the mobile controller 3 described later are realized by transmitting notification data including identification data for identifying a reason for the notification from the mobile controller 3 to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6.

On the other hand, if the processor 31 can normally complete the login process, it is determined as YES in ACT202, and the process proceeds to ACT 204.

The processor 31 notifies the user terminal 300 of the completion of the login as ACT 204. The processor 31 transmits notification data for notifying completion of login to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, for example. The processor 31 includes identification data for identifying a notification that is the completion of login in the notification data.

After the processor 301 requests login in ACT108 in fig. 9 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 109.

The processor 301 confirms whether or not the login completion has been notified as the ACT 109. If the notification cannot be confirmed, the processor 301 determines that the notification is NO, and proceeds to the ACT 110.

The processor 301 confirms as the ACT110 whether or not a login error has been notified. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the notification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 109.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for the completion of the login acceptance or the notification of an error as the ACT109 and the ACT 110. Also, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT110 if notification data for the error notification described above has been received through the wireless communication unit 306, and proceeds to the ACT 111.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display an error screen as the ACT 111. The error screen is a screen created to notify the customer that the registration is impossible. The processor 301 returns to the ACT101 if, for example, release of display of the error screen is instructed by an operation of a GUI element shown in the error screen or the like.

On the other hand, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT109 if the notification data for the notification of the above-described login completion has been received by the wireless communication unit 306, and proceeds to the ACT112 in fig. 10.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a list screen as the ACT 112. The list screen is a screen showing a list of purchased products that have been registered.

Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the list screen SC 1.

The list screen SC1 includes display areas AR11 and AR12 and buttons BU11, BU12, and BU 13. The display area AR11 shows the total number of purchased commodities and the total amount of money for purchasing commodities. The display area AR12 shows a list of purchased articles. The button BU11 is a soft key used by the customer to announce the cancellation of all purchased merchandise to abort the purchase. The button BU12 is a soft key used by the customer to announce the start of registration of a scan of an article as a purchased article. Button BU13 is a soft key used by the customer to announce the start of checkout.

Fig. 18 shows a list screen SC1 in a state where the purchased product has not been registered. Therefore, "0" is shown in the display area AR11 as the total number and the total amount, and nothing is shown in the display area AR 12.

The processor 301 confirms whether or not the scanning of the product has been designated as the scanning start of the ACT113 of fig. 10. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 114.

The processor 301 confirms whether the change of the number has been specified as the ACT 114. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 115.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT115 whether or not termination of shopping has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines that the specification is NO, and proceeds to the ACT 116.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT116 whether the start of checkout has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 113.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for any one of the acceptance scan start, number, pause, and checkout start to be designated as ACT113 to ACT 116.

When the customer registers the commodity as a purchased commodity, the customer designates the start of scanning by a preset operation such as touching a button BU12 on the list screen SC 1. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT113, and proceeds to ACT 117.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a registration screen as the ACT 117. The registration screen is a screen for urging a customer to read a barcode showing a product code of a product registered as a purchased product.

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the registration screen SC 2.

The registration screen SC2 includes a display area AR21, a message ME21, and a button BU 21. The display area AR21 displays the image obtained by the camera 305. Message ME21 is a text message that prompts the customer to read the barcode of the item. The button BU21 is a soft key used by the customer to announce the suspension of the scanning of the item code.

The processor 301, for example, activates the camera 305, and thereby superimposes the line indicating the range of the display area AR21, the message ME21, and the image of the button BU21 on the image obtained by the camera 305 to generate the registration screen SC 2.

The processor 301 confirms whether or not the barcode is read as the ACT118 in fig. 10. At this point, the processor 301 parses the image obtained through the camera 305 and attempts reading of the barcode. The barcode may be read as a process by the smartphone POS application AP301, or may be read as a process by another application for reading the barcode. If the processor 301 cannot read the barcode, it determines that the barcode is NO, and proceeds to ACT 119.

The processor 301 confirms whether or not the suspend scanning is instructed as ACT 119. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 118.

Thus, the processor 301 waits for acceptance of the barcode to be read or the scan pause to be specified as the ACT118 and the ACT 119.

When the customer desires to return to the list screen without performing the scanning of this time, the customer designates the scan termination by a preset operation such as touching the button BU 21. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT119, and returns to ACT 112.

If the registration screen has been displayed on the touch panel 304, the customer aligns the camera 305 with the article so that the barcode displayed for the article that is intended to be registered as a purchased article is reflected in the display area AR 21. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT118, and proceeds to ACT 120.

The processor 301 requests registration from the mobile controller 3 as ACT 120. The processor 301 includes data indicated by the read barcode (hereinafter referred to as barcode data) in the request data transmitted here.

In addition, in the mobile controller 3, the processor 31 proceeds to the ACT205 after being notified of the completion of login in the ACT204 in fig. 14.

The processor 31 confirms as the ACT205 whether registration has been required. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the matching request, it determines that the request is NO, and proceeds to ACT 206.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT206 whether a change in the quantity has been required. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the matching request, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 207.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT207 whether deletion of the purchase product has been requested. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the matching request, it determines that the request is NO, and proceeds to ACT 208.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT208 whether cancellation of purchase of the article has been requested. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the matching request, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 209.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT209 whether or not checkout is required. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the matching request, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 205. In this way, the processor 31 waits for any one of the acceptance registration, the number change, the deletion, the cancellation, and the settlement to be requested as the ACTs 205 to 209. Further, if registration is requested from the user terminal 300 as described above, the processor 31 determines YES in the ACT205 and proceeds to the ACT210 in fig. 15.

The processor 31 as the ACT210 transfers a request for registration to the virtual POS server 2 in response to notification of a transaction code of a transaction to be processed. The processor 31 may then either directly forward the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300 to the virtual POS server 2 or transmit the request data converted by some processing to the virtual POS server 2. However, the processor 31 notifies the virtual POS server 2 of barcode data included in the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300.

The processor 21 in the virtual POS server 2 recognizes the barcode data included in the request data transmitted from the mobile controller 3 as being read by a barcode scanner included in the existing POS terminal, and attempts registration of a purchase product by the same processing as that of the existing POS terminal. However, since a barcode different from the barcode indicating the product code used in the virtual POS server 2 is also displayed on the product, the barcode data included in the request data may not indicate the product code used in the virtual POS server 2. Also, in such a case, the processor 21 cannot make registration of the purchased article, but is regarded as an error. In this way, the processor 21 performs registration of the purchased article based on the regular barcode reading. In this way, the processor 21 executes information processing based on the virtual POS application AP21, and the computer having the processor 21 as a hub portion has a function as a registration unit. In addition, the processor 21 manages the purchased goods using the transaction database DB 21.

The processor 21 sends result data indicating the result of such processing to the mobile controller 3. When the purchased product can be registered accurately, the processor 21 includes identification data for identifying a notification of regular registration and a product code, a product name, and a price of the registered product in the result data. Further, when it is regarded as an error, the processor 21 includes identification data for identifying a notification that is an error and barcode data transmitted by a registration request in the result data.

After the processor 31 forwards the registration request in the ACT210 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to the ACT 211.

The processor 31 acquires result data transmitted from the virtual POS server as described above as the ACT 211. The processor 31 stores the retrieved result data in the main memory 32 or the secondary storage unit 33.

The processor 31 updates the registration database DB32 based on the result data described above as the ACT 212. The update of the registration database DB32 is performed, for example, as follows.

Case 1: the notification is a notification of a normal registration, and the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed does not include the registered data including the notified product code.

At this time, the processor 31 adds a new field following the last field already existing in the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed, and adds new registration data to the field. The processor 31 includes the notified product code, the error flag indicating "0" which is not an error, the notified product name and price, the number of "1" s, and the cancel flag indicating "0" which is not a cancel, in the new registration data. In this way, the registered data added in this case has a configuration as shown in the upper right side of fig. 6.

Case 2: the notification is a normal registration, and although the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed contains registration data including the notified product code, the cancellation flag of the registration data is "1" indicating that the registration data is in a cancelled state.

In this case, the processor 31 performs processing in the same manner as in case 1 described above.

Case 3: the notification is a notification of a normal registration, and the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed includes registration data including the notified product code, and the cancellation flag of the registration data is "0".

At this time, the processor 31 rewrites the value of the number included in the registration data having the cancellation flag "0" including the notified product code to a larger value.

Case 4: in the case of an error notification.

At this time, the processor 31 adds a new field following the last field already existing in the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed, and adds new registration data to the field. The processor 31 includes the notified barcode data, an error flag regarded as "1" indicating an error in the new registration data. In this way, the registered data added in this case has a configuration as shown in the lower right side of fig. 6.

In this way, the registration database DB32 shows a list of purchased articles that have been registered in the virtual POS server 2 in accordance with the update by the processor 31, and on this basis, also records barcode readings that become erroneous.

The processor 31 may store the barcode data transmitted in response to the registration request in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage unit 33, and in case 4, the stored barcode data may be included in the registration data. In this case, the processor 21 may not include the barcode data in the result data in the virtual POS server 2. The processor 31 may take out the product code from the stored barcode data and perform the processing of cases 1 to 3 based on the product code. Further, the processor 31 may acquire the product name and the price from the store server 1 or the like based on the product code.

The processor 31 checks as ACT213 whether or not the registration is properly performed. If the registration is a normal registration, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT 214.

The processor 31 confirms as the ACT214 whether or not the to-be-confirmed flag relating to the data record DR1 associated with the transaction which becomes the processing object through the transaction management database DB31 and set in the field F14 thereof is "1". If the confirmation flag is not "1", the processor 31 determines that it is NO and proceeds to ACT 215.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT215 whether the purchased article registered this time is an article to be confirmed. If the product is not to be confirmed, the processor 31 determines NO and proceeds to ACT 216. Further, the processor 31 also proceeds to the ACT216 when it is determined as NO in the ACT213 because the registration of this time is an error and when it is determined as YES in the ACT214 because the to-be-confirmed flag is "1".

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a list screen as the ACT 216. The processor 31 transmits instruction data including identification data for identifying a display instruction on the list screen to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, for example. The processor 31 includes, in the instruction data, the commodity code, the product name, the price, and the number included in the data record DR2 associated with the transaction passage registration database DB32 as the processing target. Further, if the current registration is an error, the processor 31 includes error data indicating that the current registration is an error in the instruction data. Further, the processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted states of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14.

Note that various instructions from the mobile controller 3 to the user terminal 300 described later are realized by transmitting instruction data including identification data for identifying the reason of the instruction from the mobile controller 3 to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, in the same manner as described above.

On the other hand, if the processor 31 determines YES in ACT215 because it is to confirm the product, it proceeds to ACT 217. That is, the processor 31 proceeds to the ACT217 when the product that has been registered regularly is a product to be confirmed and the to-be-confirmed flag is "0".

The processor 31 as the ACT217 rewrites the to-be-confirmed flag, which is related to the data record DR1 associated with the transaction that becomes the processing object through the transaction management database DB31 and set in the field F14 thereof, to "1".

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a guide screen as the ACT 218. The processor 31 includes the commodity code, the product name, the price, and the number included in the data record DR2 associated with the transaction passage registration database DB32 as the processing target in the instruction data for instructing the display of the guidance screen. Further, the processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted states of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14.

After the processor 301 requests registration in the ACT120 of fig. 10 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to the ACT121 in fig. 11.

The processor 301 confirms as an ACT121 whether or not display of a guide screen is instructed. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching instruction, it determines that the command is NO, and proceeds to ACT 122.

The processor 301 checks as to whether or not the display list screen is instructed as the ACT 122. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching instruction, it determines that the command is NO, and returns to the ACT 121.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for the reception of the display instruction of the guide screen or the list screen as the ACT121 and the ACT 122. Further, if the display list screen is instructed from the mobile controller 3 as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in the ACT122, returns to the ACT112 in fig. 10, and causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC 1. In this case, the processor 301 displays the list screen SC1 as a screen indicating the product name, price, and number of purchased products included in the instruction data.

Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the list screen SC1 in a state where registration of purchased products is completed. The list screen SC1 shown in fig. 20 is an example of a case where registration of a purchased commodity is completed, the commodity having a commodity name "AAA" and a price of 120 yen, two commodities having a commodity name "BBB" and a price of 98 yen, and one commodity having a commodity name "CCC" and a price of 1 and 024 yen. Moreover, none of these products is a confirmation product. In the list screen SC1 shown in fig. 20, the product names, prices, and numbers of the registered products are displayed in the display area AR 12. Further, in the display area AR11, "4" is shown as the total number, and "1, 340" is shown as the total amount. Further, a region surrounded by a dotted line on the left side of the product name shows a region for displaying an icon. The broken line indicating this area is not actually displayed on the list screen SC 1.

Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the list screen SC1 in a state where registration of purchased products is completed. The list screen SC1 shown in fig. 21 is an example of a case where registration of a purchased commodity is completed, the commodity name being "AAA", the price being 120 yen, two commodities having the commodity name being "BBB", the price being 98 yen, one commodity having the commodity name being "CCC", the price being 1, 024 yen, and one commodity having the commodity name being "DDD", the price being 380 yen. Further, the product with the product name "DDD" is a product to be confirmed. In the list screen SC1 shown in fig. 21, the product names, prices, and numbers of the registered products are displayed in the display area AR 12. Further, in the display area AR11, "5" is shown as the total number, and "1, 720" is shown as the total amount. Further, an icon IC11 indicating that the purchaser is an age-restricted product is displayed next to the product name "DDD".

On the other hand, if the display of the guide screen is instructed from the mobile controller 3 as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT121 in fig. 11 and proceeds to ACT 123.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a guide screen as the ACT 123. The guidance screen is a screen for guiding a customer to confirm that a clerk is required to check the customer at the time of checkout.

Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the guidance screen SC 3.

The guide screen SC3 is a screen in which the window WI31 is superimposed on the list screen SC 1. Window WI31 contains a message ME31 and a button BU 31. Message ME31 is a text message showing that confirmation by a clerk is required at checkout. The button BU31 is a soft key used by the customer to announce confirmation of guidance on the guidance screen SC 3. The processor 301 generates a list screen SC1 indicating the product name, price, and number of purchased products included in the instruction data, and superimposes the window WI31 on the list screen SC1 to generate a guide screen SC 3.

If the customer confirms guidance on the guidance screen SC3, the confirmation is declared by a preset operation of touching the button BU31 or the like on the guidance screen SC 3. Accordingly, the processor 301 returns from ACT123 in fig. 11 to ACT112 in fig. 10, and causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 again. Further, the processor 301 may return from the ACT123 to the ACT112 when the elapsed time in the state in which the guide screen SC3 is displayed reaches a predetermined time.

When the customer touches a region showing the number on the list screen SC1, the processor 301 displays a list frame for the number designation while overlapping the list screen SC 1. Also, when the list box is operated, the processor 301 accepts the operation as designation of the number. Then, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT114 in fig. 10 at this time, and proceeds to ACT124 in fig. 11.

The processor 301 confirms whether the specified number is 0 as ACT 124. Then, the processor 301 determines that it is NO if the specified number is not 0, and proceeds to ACT 125. The processor 301 requests the mobile controller 3 to change the number as ACT 125. The processor 301 includes specification data for specifying the number of products specified and the specified number in the request data transmitted thereto. The determination data may be either an article code or data capable of determining the purchased article in the mobile controller 3, such as a number for identifying each purchased article in a list of purchased articles. In addition, if the product code is used as the determination data, the processor 31 includes the product code related to each purchased product in the instruction data for instructing display of the list screen or the instruction data for instructing display of the guide screen.

If the processor 31 in the mobile controller 3 requests the number change from the user terminal 300 as described above, it is determined as YES in the ACT206 in fig. 14, and the process proceeds to the ACT219 in fig. 15.

The processor 31 as the ACT219 transfers a request for change of the amount to the virtual POS server 2 in response to notification of a transaction code of a transaction to be processed. The processor 31 may then either forward the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300 directly to the virtual POS server 2 or transmit the request data converted by some processing to the virtual POS server 2. However, the processor 31 notifies the virtual POS server 2 of the number included in the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300. Further, if the determination data contained in the requirement data is not a commodity code, the processor 31 replaces the determination data with the commodity code.

The processor 21 in the virtual POS server 2 regards the number included in the request data transmitted from the mobile controller 3 as the number input through the input device of the conventional POS terminal, and changes the number of purchased products by the same processing as that of the conventional POS terminal. The processor 21 transmits the article code indicating the article of which the number is changed and the result data indicating the changed number to the mobile controller 3.

After the processor 31 forwards the request for the quantity change in the ACT219 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to the ACT 220.

The processor 31 acquires the result data transmitted from the virtual POS server 2 as described above as the ACT 220. The processor 31 stores the retrieved result data in the main memory 32 or the secondary storage unit 33.

The processor 31 updates the registration database DB32 based on the above-described result data as the ACT 221. That is, the processor 31 finds out the registered data including the notified product code from the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed. The processor 31 rewrites the number included in the matching registered data into the number included in the result data.

The processor 31 may store the identification data and the number transmitted by the quantity change request data in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage unit 33 in advance, and may rewrite the number of the registered data related to the product identified by the stored identification data to the stored number based on the result data indicating that the update is completed. In this case, the processor 21 may not include the product code and the number in the result data in the virtual POS server 2.

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a list screen as the ACT 222. The processor 31 transmits instruction data including identification data for identifying a display instruction on the list screen to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, for example. The processor 31 includes, in the instruction data, the commodity code, the product name, the price, and the number included in the registration data whose cancellation flag is "0" among the registration data included in the data record DR2 updated as described above. The processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted state of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14.

In addition, in the user terminal 300, if the designated number is 0, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT124 of fig. 11 and proceeds to ACT 126.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a deletion screen as the ACT 126. The deletion screen is a screen for notifying the customer to delete the designated number of 0 products from the purchased products. The deletion screen includes a delete button for designating deletion and a return button for designating a return to a state before the designated number is changed without changing the number.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT127 whether deletion has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines that the specification is NO, and proceeds to ACT 128.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT128 whether return has been specified. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to ACT 127.

Thus, the processor 301 waits for accepting deletion or return designation as ACT127 and ACT 128.

If the customer wishes to stop the deletion and return to the state before the designated number is changed, the customer designates the return by a preset operation such as touching a return button on the deletion screen. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT128, returns to ACT112 in fig. 10, and causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 again. At this time, since the registration state of the purchased product is not changed, the processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 again in the same state as the state displayed before the deletion screen is displayed.

If the customer does not delete the image correctly, the customer designates deletion by a preset operation such as touching a delete button on the delete screen. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT127, and proceeds to ACT 129.

The processor 301 requests deletion from the mobile controller 3 as ACT 129. The processor 301 includes determination data for determining the commodity for which deletion is designated in the request data transmitted thereto.

If deletion is requested from the user terminal 300 by the processor 31 in the mobile controller 3 as described above, it is determined as YES in ACT207 in fig. 14, and the process proceeds to ACT223 in fig. 16.

The ACT223 processor 31 forwards a request for deletion to the virtual POS server 2 in response to notification of a transaction code of a transaction to be processed. The processor 31 may then either forward the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300 directly to the virtual POS server 2 or transmit the request data converted by some processing to the virtual POS server 2. However, if the determination data included in the request data is not a commodity code, the processor 31 replaces the determination data with the commodity code.

The processor 21 in the virtual POS server 2 regards the request based on the request data transmitted from the mobile controller 3 as a deletion instruction input through an input device included in the conventional POS terminal, and removes the target product from the purchased products by the same processing as that of the conventional POS terminal. The processor 21 transmits result data indicating the article code of the article removed from the purchased article to the mobile controller 3.

After the processor 31 forwards the delete request in the ACT223 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to the ACT 224.

The processor 31 acquires the result data transmitted from the virtual POS server as described above as the ACT 224. The processor 31 stores the retrieved result data in the main memory 32 or the secondary storage unit 33.

The processor 31 updates the registration database DB32 based on the result data described above as the ACT 225. That is, the processor 31 finds out the registered data including the notified commodity code from the data record DR2 associated with the transaction to be processed. Further, the processor 31 changes the cancel flag included in the matching registered data to "1".

The processor 31 may store the identification data transmitted by the request data to be deleted in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage unit 33 in advance, and may change the cancel flag of the registration data relating to the product identified by the stored identification data in response to the reception of the result data indicating that the deletion is completed. In this case, the processor 21 may not include the product code in the result data in the virtual POS server 2.

The processor 301 confirms as an ACT226 whether or not the deleted product is a product to be confirmed. If the product is to be confirmed, the processor 301 determines YES and proceeds to ACT 227.

The processor 301 checks as the ACT227 whether or not there is another product to be checked among the purchased products of the transaction to be processed. If the processor 301 does not have a matching product, it determines that the product is NO and proceeds to ACT 228. That is, the processor 301 proceeds to ACT228 if it is to confirm that none of the articles is present among the purchased articles by the article deletion of this time.

The processor 301 as the ACT228 changes the to-be-confirmed flag, which is related to the data record DR1 associated with the transaction that becomes the processing object through the transaction management database DB31 and is set in its field F14, to "0".

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a list screen as an ACT 229. The processor 31 transmits instruction data including identification data for identifying a display instruction on the list screen to the user terminal 300 via the in-store communication network 7 and the access point 6, for example. The processor 31 includes, in the instruction data, the commodity code, the product name, the price, and the number included in the registration data whose cancellation flag is "0" among the registration data included in the data record DR2 updated as described above. The processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted state of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14. Further, when the deleted product is determined to be NO in ACT226 because it is not a product to be confirmed and is determined to be YES in ACT227 because it is another product to be confirmed, processor 31 skips ACT228 and ACT229 and returns to the wait-for-acceptance state of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14.

In addition, in the user terminal 300, the processor 301 proceeds to the ACT130 after the number change is requested in the ACT125 or after the deletion is requested in the ACT 129.

The processor 301 waits for the instruction to accept the display of the list screen as the ACT 130. Then, if the display of the list screen is instructed from the mobile controller 3 in response to the request for change in the number or the request for deletion as described above, the processor 301 determines YES, returns to ACT112 in fig. 10, and causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 again. In this case, the processor 301 displays the list screen SC1 as a screen indicating the product name, price, and number of purchased products included in the instruction data. At this time, since the registration state of the purchased product is changed, the processor 301 can cause the touch panel 304 to display a list screen SC1 showing the state of the purchased product, which is different from the state displayed when the number is changed or the deletion is designated

When the customer deletes all the purchased commodities already registered and wants to stop shopping, the customer designates the termination by a preset operation such as touching button BU11 on list screen SC 1. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT115, and proceeds to ACT131 in fig. 11.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a cancel screen as the ACT 131. The cancel screen is a screen for notifying the customer that all the registered purchased products have been cancelled. The cancel screen includes an execute button for designating cancel execution and a return button for designating a state before the change of the designated number without changing the number.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT132 whether cancellation of execution has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines that the specification is NO, and proceeds to ACT 133.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT133 whether return has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 132.

Thus, the processor 301 waits for accepting the cancel execution or the return designation as the ACT132 and the ACT 133.

If the customer continues shopping, the customer designates a return by a preset operation such as touching a return button on the cancel screen. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT133, returns to ACT112 in fig. 10, and causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 again. At this time, since the registration state of the purchased product is not changed, the processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display the list screen SC1 in the same state as that displayed before the cancel screen is displayed.

If the customer stops shopping, the customer designates cancellation of execution by a preset operation such as touching an execution button on the cancellation screen. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT132, and proceeds to ACT 134.

The processor 301 requests cancellation from the mobile controller 3 as ACT 134.

If the processor 31 requests cancellation from the user terminal 300 as described above in the mobile controller 3, it is determined as YES in ACT208 in fig. 14 and proceeds to ACT230 in fig. 16.

The processor 31 as the ACT230 forwards a request for cancellation to the virtual POS server 2 with notification of a transaction code of a transaction which becomes a processing target. The processor 31 may then either directly forward the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300 to the virtual POS server 2 or transmit the request data converted by some processing to the virtual POS server 2.

In the virtual POS server 2, the processor 21 regards the request based on the request data transmitted from the mobile controller 3 as a cancel instruction input through an input device included in the existing POS terminal, and removes all the purchased products that have been registered in association with the notified transaction code from the purchased products by the same processing as the existing POS terminal. The processor 21 sends result data showing completion of cancellation to the mobile controller 3.

After the processor 31 forwards the delete request in the ACT230 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to the ACT 231.

The processor 31 acquires result data transmitted from the virtual POS server as described above as the ACT 231. The processor 31 stores the retrieved result data in the main memory 32 or the secondary storage unit 33.

The processor 31 updates the registration database DB32 based on the result data described above as ACT 232. That is, the processor 31 changes the cancel flag that becomes "0" to "1" with respect to all registered data associated with the registered data included in the data record DR2 of the transaction to be processed.

The processor 301 as the ACT233 changes the flag to be confirmed, which is related to the data record DR1 associated with the transaction that becomes the processing object through the transaction management database DB31 and is set in its field F14, to "0".

The processor 31 notifies the user terminal 300 of cancellation as ACT 234. Further, the processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted states of ACT205 to ACT209 in fig. 14.

In addition, after the processor 301 requests cancellation in ACT134 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 135.

The processor 301 waits for the acceptance of the cancellation notification from the mobile controller 3 as ACT 135. Further, the processor 301 determines YES if cancellation has been notified as described above, and returns to the ACT101 in fig. 9.

If the customer has registered all of the products desired to be purchased as purchased products, the customer proceeds to settlement. At this time, the customer designates the start of checkout by a preset operation such as touching a button BU13 on the list screen SC 1. Accordingly, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT116 in fig. 10, and proceeds to ACT 136.

Processor 301 requests checkout from mobile controller 3 as ACT 136.

If the processor 31 requests checkout from the user terminal 300 as described above in the mobile controller 3, the determination is YES in ACT209 in fig. 14, and the process proceeds to ACT235 in fig. 17.

The processor 31 as the ACT235 confirms whether the to-be-confirmed flag set in the field F14 of the data record DR1 associated with the transaction becoming the processing object passing through the transaction management database DB31 is "1". That is, the processor 31 confirms whether the article to be confirmed is contained in the purchased article. Then, if the matching to-be-confirmed flag is "1", that is, if the to-be-confirmed product is included in the purchased product, it is determined as YES, and the process proceeds to ACT 236. In the following, a state in which the purchased product includes the product to be confirmed and the sales of the product to be confirmed is not allowed to be confirmed by the clerk is referred to as a confirmation-required state.

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a confirmation screen as an ACT 236.

In addition, after processor 301 requests checkout in ACT136 in fig. 10 in user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 137.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT137 whether or not display of a confirmation screen has been instructed. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the instruction, it determines that the command is NO, and proceeds to ACT 138.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT138 whether or not display of a checkout screen has been instructed. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the instruction, it determines NO and returns to ACT 137.

In this way, the processor 301 instructs the display of the wait for acceptance confirmation screen or the checkout screen as the ACT137 and the ACT 138. Further, if the display of the confirmation screen is instructed from the mobile controller 3 as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT137 and proceeds to ACT139 in fig. 12.

The processor 301 displays a confirmation screen as the ACT 139. The confirmation screen is a screen for urging the customer to contact a clerk to confirm the product to be confirmed.

Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the confirmation screen SC 4.

The confirmation screen SC4 is a screen in which the window WI41 is superimposed on the list screen SC1 displayed immediately before. The window WI41 contains a message ME41 and buttons BU41, BU 42. Message ME41 is a text message showing that contact with a clerk is required to confirm that the merchandise is to be confirmed. The button BU41 is a soft key used by the customer to designate acceptance of the clerk's confirmation. The button BU42 is a soft key used by the customer to designate return to merchandise registration.

If the customer decides to accept the confirmation by the clerk, the customer designates the confirmation by a preset operation such as touching button BU 41. Further, if the customer decides to temporarily stop the checkout and returns to the commodity registration, the return is designated by a preset operation such as touching the button BU 42.

The processor 301 confirms whether confirmation has been designated as ACT140 in fig. 12. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines that the specification is NO, and proceeds to ACT 141.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT141 whether return has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 140.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for the acceptance confirmation or return designation as the ACT140 and the ACT 141. Further, if confirmation is designated as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT140 and proceeds to ACT 142.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a release screen as the ACT 142. The release screen is a screen for causing the user terminal 300 to read a barcode which is a symbol code for releasing the waiting state for confirmation by a clerk who has confirmed that the sale of the commodity to be confirmed is permitted. In addition, although the barcode is used for the release, the code may be a symbol code for acquiring symbol data by reading a symbol code such as a two-dimensional code. However, if the amount of data is not large, the use of the barcode can reduce the cost of the reading apparatus.

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the release screen SC 5.

The release screen SC5 includes a display area AR51, a message ME51, and a button BU 51. The display area AR51 displays the image obtained by the camera 305. The message ME51 is a text message (guidance display) that prompts a clerk to read a barcode (symbol code) for releasing a status to be confirmed. The button BU51 is a soft key used by a customer or a clerk to announce suspension of scanning of a barcode for release.

The processor 301 activates the camera 305, for example, and thereby superimposes the image showing the line indicating the range of the display area AR51, the message ME51, and the button BU51 on the image obtained by the camera 305 to generate the release screen SC 5.

The customer commissions the store clerk for confirmation. The clerk confirms whether or not the sale of the commodity to be confirmed is permitted, and if permitted, the release barcode is directed to the camera 305 so as to be reflected in the display area AR 51. The clerk holds a card or the like printed with a bar code for release in advance for the job. Alternatively, the clerk displays a bar code for release on a screen of a held information terminal. In addition, it is preferable to use a different bar code for release for each shop or each operator. However, different stores or different operators are allowed to use the same bar code for release. Further, by changing the regular barcode for release every day, for example, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of an unauthorized situation when the barcode for release is acquired by a customer in some cases.

In addition, if the clerk confirms that the confirmation of the sale of the commodity is not permitted, the return to the commodity registration is designated by a preset operation such as touching the button BU 51. Alternatively, if the customer determines to return to the commodity registration without asking the store clerk to confirm, the return to the commodity registration is designated by a preset operation such as touching a button BU51 (an instruction unit for instructing return to the commodity registration).

The processor 301 confirms whether or not the barcode is read as ACT 143. At this time, the processor 301 analyzes the image obtained by the camera 305 and attempts to read the barcode. The barcode may be read as processing by the smartphone POS application AP301, or may be read as processing by another application for reading the barcode. If the processor 301 does not read the barcode, it determines that the barcode is NO, and proceeds to ACT 144.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT144 whether return has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching specification, it determines NO and returns to ACT 143.

As such, the processor 301 waits for the acceptance barcode to be read or specified back as ACT143 and ACT 144.

If the return is designated as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT144 and proceeds to ACT 145. Further, if the return is designated as described above in a state where the confirmation screen SC4 is displayed on the touch panel 304, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT141 and proceeds to ACT 145.

The processor 301 requests return to the article registration to the mobile controller 3 as the ACT145 (transmits data indicating return to the article registration as the designated data). Also, the processor 301 returns to ACT112 in fig. 10.

In addition, after the processor 31 instructs the display confirmation screen in the ACT236 in fig. 17 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to the ACT 237.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT237 whether release has been requested. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the request, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 238.

The processor 31 checks as to whether or not a return is requested (a detection unit that detects data indicating a return to product registration). If the processor 31 cannot confirm the request, it determines NO and returns to ACT 237.

In this way, the processor 31 waits for the acceptance release or return to be requested as the ACT237 and the ACT 238. Further, if the return to the product registration is requested from the user terminal 300 (data indicating the return to the product registration is received) as described above, the processor 31 determines YES in the ACT238, and returns to the wait-for-reception state of the ACTs 205 to 209 in fig. 14.

That is, both the mobile controller 3 and the user terminal 300 return to the state of performing article registration (return processing).

On the other hand, in the user terminal 300, when a barcode is reflected in the image captured by the camera 305, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT143 in fig. 12 and proceeds to ACT 146.

The processor 301 saves bar code data indicated by the read bar code in the main memory 302 or the auxiliary storage unit 303 as the ACT 146.

The processor 301 requests the mobile controller 3 to release the to-be-confirmed state as ACT 147. The processor 301 includes the stored barcode data in the request data transmitted thereto. The request data transmitted by the processor 301 includes authentication data included in the login data held in the ACT107 in fig. 9.

In this way, when the user terminal 300 requests the mobile controller 3 to release, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT237 in fig. 17 in the mobile controller 3 and proceeds to ACT 239.

The processor 31 performs authentication processing as ACT 239. The processor 31, for example, extracts barcode data and authentication data from the request data and stores the barcode data and the authentication data in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage unit 33. In this way, the processor 31 executes information processing by the registration support application AP31, and the computer having the processor 31 as a hub portion has a function as an acquisition unit. The processor 31 performs an authentication process of confirming whether or not the read barcode is a regular barcode for release (release data) based on the barcode data (designated data) and the authentication data acquired in this way. This authentication process can be performed by any of the following methods, for example.

(1) When the barcode data matches the authentication data, the processor 31 determines that the proper barcode for release has been read.

(2) The processor 31 processes the barcode data by a predetermined algorithm, and determines that a normal barcode for release has been read when the data obtained as a result of the processing matches the authentication data.

(3) The processor 31 processes the authentication data by a predetermined algorithm, and determines that a normal bar code for release has been read when the data obtained as a result of the processing matches the bar code data.

(4) The processor 31 processes the barcode data with a predetermined first algorithm and processes the authentication data with a predetermined second algorithm. When the two data obtained as a result match each other, it is determined that the normal barcode for release has been read.

Any process for confirming that the barcode data and the authentication data are in a predetermined relationship may be applied. The processor 31 may determine that the normal barcode for release has been read when it can be confirmed that the barcode data and the authentication data are in a predetermined relationship.

The processor 31 confirms whether the authentication has succeeded as the ACT 240. Then, the processor 31 determines NO if the authentication fails, and proceeds to ACT 241.

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a warning screen as ACT 241. Then, the processor 31 thereafter returns to the wait-accepted state in the ACT237 and the ACT 238.

After the processor 301 requests release in ACT147 in fig. 12 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 148.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT148 whether or not display of a warning screen has been instructed. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching instruction, it determines that the command is NO, and proceeds to ACT 149.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT149 whether or not display of a checkout screen has been instructed. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the matching instruction, it determines that the command is NO, and returns to ACT 148.

In this way, the processor 301 instructs the display of the wait for acceptance warning screen or the checkout screen as ACT148 and ACT 149. Further, if the display of the warning screen is instructed from the mobile controller 3 as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT148 and proceeds to ACT 150.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a warning screen as the ACT 150. The warning screen is a screen for warning the clerk that the bar code for release read by the clerk is inaccurate.

Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the warning screen SC 6.

The warning screen SC6 is a screen in which the window WI61 is superimposed on the release screen SC5 displayed immediately before. Window WI61 contains a message ME61 and a button BU 61. Message ME61 is a text message showing that the bar code that has been read is inaccurate. The button BU61 is a soft key used by a clerk to announce that the notification in the warning screen SC6 has been confirmed.

The processor 301 returns to ACT142 if cancellation of the display of the warning screen SC6 is instructed by a preset operation of touching, for example, the button BU61 displayed in the warning screen SC 6.

In the mobile controller 3, the processor 31 determines YES in the ACT240 as a result of the authentication process in the ACT239 in fig. 17 if the authentication is successful, and proceeds to the ACT 242. In addition, if the confirmation flag is "0", the processor 31 determines NO in ACT235 and proceeds to ACT 242.

The processor 31 instructs the user terminal 300 to display a checkout screen as ACT 242. Thereafter, the processor 31 starts the following processing for causing the payment settlement of the purchase of the product registered as the purchased product by the virtual POS server 2 or the checkout 5. That is, the processor 31 allows the settlement processing to be started when the acquired barcode data is release data that is data in a predetermined relationship with respect to the authentication data. In this way, the processor 31 executes information processing by the registration support application AP31, and a computer having the processor 31 as a central portion has a function as a control unit.

When the processor 31 determines NO in ACT235 and proceeds to ACT242, the user terminal 300 is not instructed to display a confirmation screen because ACT236 is skipped. Therefore, when the processor 31 instructs to display a checkout screen in the ACT242, the processor 301 is in the wait-for-acceptance state of the ACTs 137 and 138 in fig. 10 in the user terminal 300. Therefore, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT138 in accordance with the above-described display instruction of the checkout screen, and proceeds to ACT151 in fig. 13.

Further, when the processor 31 determines YES in ACT240 and proceeds to ACT242, the processor 301 is in the wait-accepted state of ACT148 and ACT149 in fig. 12 in the user terminal 300 when the processor 31 instructs display of a checkout screen in ACT 242. Therefore, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT149 based on the aforementioned instruction to display the checkout screen, and proceeds to ACT151 in fig. 13.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a checkout screen as ACT 151. The checkout screen is a screen for the customer to select an operation for settling the money in any of the user terminal 300 and the checkout 5.

Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the checkout screen SC 7.

Checkout screen SC7 includes display area AR71, message ME71, and buttons BU71 and BU 72. The display area AR71 shows the total number of purchased commodities and the total amount of money for purchasing commodities. The message ME71 is a text message prompting the customer to specify an operation for settling the payment in any of the user terminal 300 and the checkout machine 5. The button BU71 is a soft key of the customer-specified user terminal 300. The button BU72 is a soft key used by the customer to designate the checkout machine 5.

When the customer desires to perform an operation for settling the money in the user terminal 300, the customer designates the user terminal 300 by a predetermined operation such as touching the button BU 71. When the customer desires to perform an operation for settling the money in the checkout apparatus 5, the customer designates the checkout apparatus 5 by a preset operation such as touching the button BU 72.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT152 whether the user terminal 300 has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the designation, it determines that the command is NO, and proceeds to ACT 153.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT153 whether the checkout machine 5 has been designated. If the processor 301 cannot confirm the designation, it determines NO and returns to the ACT 152.

In this way, the processor 301 waits for the acceptance user terminal 300 or the checkout machine 5 to be designated as ACT152 and ACT 153. Further, if the user terminal 300 has been designated as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT152 and proceeds to ACT 154.

The processor 301 requests settlement from the mobile controller 3 as ACT 154. The processor 301 also includes settlement data such as a credit card number and a user code for an online settlement service, which is required for settlement, in the request data for requesting settlement.

Further, if the checkout machine 5 is designated as described above, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT153 and proceeds to ACT 155.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a checkout barcode screen as an ACT 155. The checkout barcode screen is a screen showing a checkout barcode showing data necessary for the checkout machine 5 to acquire data relating to the contents of the transaction from the virtual POS server 2. Although the detailed processing is not illustrated, the processor 301 obtains the checkout barcode from the virtual POS server 2 via the mobile controller 3, and then displays the checkout barcode on a checkout barcode screen.

The customer causes the scanner of the checkout machine 5 unused by the other customer to read the checkout barcode. Accordingly, the checkout device 5 acquires data related to the contents of the transaction from the virtual POS server 2 in accordance with the data indicated by the checkout barcode, and executes processing for settling the settlement amount calculated based on the data. Then, if the settlement is completed, the checkout device 5 notifies the virtual POS server 2 of the effect. In the virtual POS server 2, if the settlement completion has been notified from the checkout machine 5, the processor 21 notifies the mobile controller 3 of the settlement completion. Note that the completion of settlement at the checkout 5 may be notified directly from the checkout 5 to the mobile controller 3. As described above, the checkout device 5 is an example of a settlement unit.

After the processor 31 instructs display of a checkout screen in ACT242 of fig. 17 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to ACT 243.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT243 whether settlement has been required. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the request, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 244.

The processor 31 confirms as ACT244 whether or not the settlement completion has been notified. If the processor 31 cannot confirm the request, it determines NO and returns to ACT 243.

In this way, the processor 31 waits for the acceptance of the settlement request or the settlement completion notification as the ACT243 and the ACT 244. Further, if the processor 31 has requested a settlement from the user terminal 300 as described above, it is determined as YES in ACT243 and proceeds to ACT 245.

The ACT245 processor 31 transfers a request for settlement to the virtual POS server 2 in response to notification of a transaction code of a transaction to be processed. The processor 31 may then either directly forward the request data transmitted from the user terminal 300 to the virtual POS server 2 or transmit the request data converted by some processing to the virtual POS server 2.

The processor 21 in the virtual POS server 2 regards the request based on the request data transmitted from the mobile controller 3 as a settlement instruction input through an input device provided in the conventional POS terminal, and performs processing for calculating a payment for the transaction identified by the notified transaction code and settling the payment based on the settlement data in the same manner as the conventional POS terminal. The processing for settlement includes, for example, a settlement request to a settlement server not shown. Also, the processor 21 transmits result data showing the completion of settlement to the mobile controller 3. In this way, the processor 21 executes information processing by the virtual POS application AP21, and the computer having the processor 21 as a central part has a function as a settlement unit.

After the processor 31 forwards the request for settlement in ACT245 in the mobile controller 3, it proceeds to ACT 246.

The processor 31 waits for acceptance to notify the completion of settlement from the mobile controller 3 as an ACT 246. Further, the processor 31 determines YES if it receives result data showing the completion of settlement transmitted by the mobile controller 3 as described above through the communication interface 34, and proceeds to ACT 247. Further, if the settlement completion in the checkout machine 5 is notified as described above, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT244 and proceeds to ACT 247.

The processor 31 notifies the user terminal 300 of the completion of the settlement as an ACT 247.

After the processor 301 requests the mobile controller 3 for settlement in ACT154 in fig. 13 or displays the settlement barcode screen in ACT155 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 156.

The processor 301 waits for the acceptance of the completion of settlement to be notified as an ACT 156. Further, if the mobile controller 3 has notified completion of settlement as described above, the processor 301 determines YES and proceeds to ACT 157.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a completion screen as an ACT 157. The completion screen is a screen for notifying the customer that the settlement has been completed.

If the customer confirms the completion screen, the confirmation is declared by a preset operation such as touching a button shown on the completion screen. Accordingly, the processor 301 proceeds to ACT 158. Further, the processor 301 may advance to the ACT158 when the elapsed time in the state in which the completion screen is displayed reaches a predetermined time.

The processor 301 causes the touch panel 304 to display a scan screen for exit as the ACT 158. The scan screen for ejection is a screen for reading the two-dimensional code TC2 for ejection. The processor 301, for example, activates the camera 305, and thereby superimposes a text message urging a customer to read the two-dimensional code TC2 and a line indicating a reference of the position for aligning the two-dimensional code TC2 on an image obtained by the camera 305 to generate a scan screen.

If the customer displays a scan screen for exit on the touch panel 304, the camera 305 is directed to the two-dimensional code TC2 so that the two-dimensional code TC2 published near the exit of the store is reflected in the scan screen.

The processor 301 waits for acceptance of the two-dimensional code to be read as ACT 159. At this time, the processor 301 repeatedly analyzes the image obtained by the camera 305 and attempts to read the two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be read as a process by the smartphone POS application AP301 or as a process by another application for reading the two-dimensional code. Then, if the two-dimensional code is read, the processor 301 determines YES and proceeds to ACT 160.

The processor 301 confirms as ACT160 whether or not the data indicated by the two-dimensional code that has been read is the exit data. If the processor 301 does not exit the data, it determines NO and returns to ACT 159. At this time, the processor 301 may cause the touch panel 304 to display a screen for notifying the customer of the two-dimensional code read with an error.

If it can be confirmed that the data indicated by the read two-dimensional code is the exit data, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT160 and proceeds to ACT 161.

The processor 301 requests the mobile controller 3 to exit as an ACT 161.

After the processor 31 in the mobile controller 3 notifies the completion of the settlement in ACT247 in fig. 17, it proceeds to ACT 248.

The processor 31 waits for an acceptance exit to be requested as ACT 248. Further, if the processor 31 has requested exit from the user terminal 300 as described above, it is determined as YES and proceeds to ACT 249.

The processor 31 executes the exit process as ACT 249. The logout processing is processing for erasing data stored in the main memory 32 and the auxiliary storage unit 33 to manage a transaction to be processed. The virtual POS server 2 may terminate processing related to the transaction in accordance with the completion of the settlement, or may terminate processing related to the transaction in accordance with an instruction from the mobile controller 3. In the latter case, the processor 31 gives the instruction to the virtual POS server 2 during the logout process. In some cases, a history database that shows the history of user operations including wrong barcode scanning may be managed in the store server 1, the virtual POS server 2, the mobile controller 3, or another server not shown. At this time, the processor 31 performs processing for updating the history database so as to reflect the history of the operation related to the current transaction in the exit processing.

The processor 31 notifies the user terminal 300 of the completion of the logout as the ACT 250. Then, the processor 31 ends the information processing shown in fig. 14 to 17.

After the processor 301 has requested exit in ACT161 in fig. 13 in the user terminal 300, it proceeds to ACT 162.

The processor 302 waits for a notification of the completion of the acceptance exit as in ACT 162. Further, if the processor 301 has notified the completion of the logout from the mobile controller 3 as described above, it is determined as YES and proceeds to ACT 163.

The processor 301 erases various data temporarily used in connection with the current purchase, such as login data stored in the ACT107 in fig. 9, as the ACT 163. Also, the processor 301 thereafter returns to ACT101 in fig. 9.

As above, according to the transaction processing system of the present embodiment, the progress to the processing for checkout is not made in the to-be-confirmed state in the user terminal 300. Then, if the user terminal 300 reads the regular barcode for release, the process proceeds to the process for settlement under authentication in the mobile controller 3. In this way, the confirmation of the clerk can be completed in the user terminal 300, and the checkout can be completed without using a checkout station equipped with the clerk.

In addition, according to the transaction processing system of the present embodiment, the clerk only needs to read the bar code for cancellation by the user terminal 300 in order to cancel the confirmation state, and therefore, the work therefor does not become a large burden on the clerk.

Further, according to the transaction processing system of the present embodiment, the clerk only has to perform the operation in the user terminal 300 in order to release the confirmation-to-confirm state. Therefore, the customer can ask a clerk who is looking at the store and then cancel the confirmation target state, or can go to a service desk or the like and ask a resident clerk to cancel the confirmation target state. That is, by providing a bar code for release to a plurality of different store clerks in the area, flexibility in releasing the confirmation target state can be improved. However, what kind of store clerk is provided with the bar code for release is determined according to the situation of each store or each operator. That is, it is possible to change which form the release is allowed in accordance with the situation of the store side or the operator side by providing the releasing barcode to which store clerk.

Further, according to the transaction processing system of the present embodiment, the authentication processing is performed based on the request data included in the login data. Therefore, it is easy to make the release bar code different for each shop or each operator.

The present embodiment can be implemented in various modifications as follows.

The data for confirming the state release may be acquired by any other method, such as acquiring designated data by a manual input operation, or acquiring data electronically stored in a storage medium by short-range wireless communication.

The authentication data may be stored in any storage device provided in the store system 100. For example, authentication data may also be stored in the main memory 32 or the secondary storage unit 33 by the mobile controller 3.

The confirmation may be performed by a clerk at the time of the checkout machine, or the settlement may be advanced to the checkout machine without confirmation by the clerk at the user terminal.

When the customer reads the regular cancellation barcode at an arbitrary timing before the end of the product registration, the confirmation target may be cancelled as "0". By doing so, when the customer sees the clerk while strolling at the store, the clerk can be requested to release the confirmation state. However, in this case, if the commodity to be confirmed is registered as a purchased commodity after the confirmation required state is released, the confirmation required state is set to "1", and therefore, the release is required again.

The functions of the virtual POS server 2 and the functions of the mobile controller 3 may also be implemented by an integrated server.

The user terminal 300 may be a so-called cart terminal mounted on a shopping cart provided in a store. That is, the transaction processing system may also be implemented as a cart POS system. Alternatively, the user terminal 300 may be a terminal carried by the user and a terminal attached to a shopping cart.

Some or all of the functions of the

processors

11, 21, 31, 41, and 301 realized by information processing may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit that executes information processing not based on a program. Further, each of the functions described above may be realized by combining software control with hardware such as the logic circuit.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be embodied in other various forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the scope of claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Claims

1. A transaction processing system, comprising:

a registration unit that registers a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal;

a settlement unit configured to perform settlement processing for causing the customer to settle the payment for the commodity registered by the registration unit;

an acquisition unit that acquires data specified by an operation performed by the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodities to be settled in the settlement processing performed by the settlement unit; and

and a control unit configured to allow the settlement unit to start the settlement process when the data acquired by the acquisition unit is preset release data.

2. The transaction processing system of claim 1, wherein,

the control unit determines that the data acquired by the acquisition unit is the release data when the data acquired by the acquisition unit and authentication data are in a predetermined relationship.

3. The transaction processing system of claim 2, wherein,

the control unit uses authentication data acquired by the terminal when the customer enters the store.

4. The transaction processing system of any of claims 1 to 3,

the acquisition unit acquires, as the data, symbol data indicated by a symbol code read by the terminal.

5. The transaction processing system of claim 4, wherein,

the symbology code is a barcode.

6. The transaction processing system of claim 4, further comprising:

a display part for displaying the display position of the display part,

wherein, when the acquisition unit acquires the data, a guidance display that urges reading of the symbol code is performed on the display unit.

7. The transaction processing system of claim 1, further comprising:

a detection unit for detecting data indicating a return to the product registration,

when the commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included, the commodity is returned to a state of being registered based on the detection of data indicating return to the commodity registration.

8. A transaction support device used in a transaction processing system including a registration unit for registering a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal, and a settlement unit for performing a settlement process for the customer to settle a payment for the product registered by the registration unit, the transaction support device comprising:

9. A storage medium storing an information processing program for causing a computer provided in a transaction processing system including a registration unit for registering a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal, and a settlement unit for causing the customer to settle a payment for the product registered by the registration unit, to function as:

10. A transaction processing method, comprising:

registering a product designated by an operation in a terminal as a product to be purchased by a customer using the terminal;

acquiring data specified by an operation in the terminal when a commodity requiring confirmation by a clerk at the time of sale is included in the commodities to be settled in a settlement process for settling the payment of the registered commodity by the customer;

allowing the start of the settlement processing when the acquired data is preset release data; and

the settlement processing is executed when the settlement processing is permitted.